South Australian start-up ecoJet Engineering has developed a world-leading micro gas turbine (MGT) engine to provide a solution for affordable and uninterrupted on-site power supply.

The company has been awarded a $96,500 grant through the South Australian Early Commercialisation Fund (SAECF), administered by TechInSA, to help bring its innovative generator to the global market.

ecoJet has devised a zero-emissions power-source by designing a micro gas turbine which burns hydrogen gas. The turbine engine, which has a nominal output range of 10-16kW, will be cheaper and cleaner to run than current micro gas turbines and other competing technologies. The design is small, lightweight and scalable. A variety of fuels, including natural gas and automotive fuels, can also be used to meet a broad range of requirements.

The technology uses a newly-patented turbine rotor which has been specifically designed by ecoJet to significantly reduce thrust and increase torque. This significantly contributes to improving efficiency over existing MGT products, which typically have power efficiencies of less than 35 per cent.

According to the news release, ecoJet’s MGT said it does not compete with other renewable energy sources and can be combined with energy storage products or solar panels. Through such collaborations ecoJet will be able to generate reliable energy independent of the national power grid for a range of consumers, including those in remote areas.

Manufacturing and Innovation Minister Kyam Maher said, “The global micro turbine market is predicted to increase to around AUD $452 million by 2024. ecoJet is well placed to tap into this growing market and ultimately create new jobs and contribute to economic growth in South Australia.

“The research and development of ecoJet’s technology is reflective of the impressive and ever-growing high-tech innovation coming out of South Australia.”

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